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A Balanced Bowl | from The New York Dog Magazine | July/August 2006

 Chubby Chi
Q: I’ve been trying for weeks to find a website that can help me with my overweight Chihuahua. She is about 7/8 pounds over. She is 3 years old but looks like she is 10. She is having a problem with her breathing since she’s carrying all those extra pounds. How do I get her back on track? Please help- I’m afraid for her health. —Jackie
A: Canine obesity is at epidemic proportions and is at the root of many degenerative diseases affecting our pet’s health and longetivity. Canine obesity is the result of feeding high-carbohydrate, processed foods, not enough exercise, pampering with species-inappropriate snacks, and feeding more food than is necessary to sustain the dog’s activity. Feed a meat-based diet with few grains that is not highly processed – think fresh food – and be sure to feed the amount recommended for the weight your dog should be. For example if your dog should weigh 7 pounds but weighs 12 pounds, follow the feeding instructions for a seven pound dog. Cut out all snacks that look like foods you would avoid yourself on a diet (no dog “cupcakes” or “cookies”). I would also suggest you consult with your vet to rule out any serious cardiovascular disease and get the approval to begin a regular exercise routine for your overweight pup. Good luck.
 Side of Eggs  Scrap Happy
Q: I’ve read that raw egg whites are dangerous for dogs. Is this true? —Janet Q: Q:My dog Moxie-Poo loves table scraps. Am I hurting her health by giving in to her demands? —Dimitri
A: This may be true if egg whites are fed in excess or as the sole food. The avidin in raw egg white could cause a biotin vitamin defi ciency. However, the biotin lost by feeding raw egg white is in fact replaced with the biotin in the yolk of the whole egg. Whole raw eggs are an excellent addition to your pet’s diet as they are a good source of protein. A: Healthy table scraps (not junk food leftovers) are excellent for your dog when fed in variety. I’ve never understood why people would be afraid to feed their dog leftover steamed broccoli and garlic but think feeding their dog a “pet biscotti” is perfectly natural? Fresh foods from the table have increased freshness and nutrient value over any processed pet food from a can or bag. Of course, if your pet is not used to “people” food, go slowly so as to not upset his/her stomach. Some favorites around my house are leftover steamed veggies, sushi, pasta – in moderation – any chicken, fi sh or turkey. And absolutely any type of baby food is highly coveted – especially if it’s thrown onto the fl oor from the high chair.


>> info and subscriptions for The New York Dog Magazine <<

A Balanced Bowl

Sept/Oct 2006
on raw diets, Brewer's Rice, and the question of vegetarian diets for dogs

July/Aug 2006 >>
on pet obesity, eggs, and table scraps

May/June 2006
on pet obesity, chocolate, and canine diabetes

submit questions to balancedbowl@gatsbyinc.com
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